The Assistant Manager works with Assistant(s) and Manager of Corporate & Foundation Relations to plan, develop, and implement the solicitation of corporate sponsorships, foundation grants, and government support—both restricted and unrestricted—for the Kennedy Center's major artistic and educational programming and annual fundraising events.

The Assistant Manager will organize and execute solicitation campaigns, prospecting research and strategy, and fulfillment of donor benefits, working directly with donors and internal staff from throughout the Kennedy Center.

The Assistant Manager must be able to exercise discretion in order to prioritize assignments and work under significant pressure, as many projects are time sensitive involving concurrent deadlines and donor interaction. A proactive working style and an eagerness to communicate and problem-solve with a positive attitude is essential.

Duties and Responsibilities:

25% Identify, cultivate, and solicit current and prospective donors/sponsors at all levels, helping to ensure their continued interest in and goodwill toward the Kennedy Center.

15% Manage special events fundraising campaigns for both table buyers as well as larger sponsorship opportunities. Function as the internal point of contact for event fundraising, working closely with the Center's special events team and Major Gifts fundraising professionals. Actively work on multiple events in various stages at the same time.

20% Cultivate and steward sponsors via events/hospitality opportunities, donor recognition and ticketing, and other benefits as appropriate. Work directly with corporate contacts to fulfill benefits.

15% Oversee the Assistant(s) in processing gifts, drafting correspondence, researching donor prospects, and ensuring proper donor crediting on all materials related to events and season sponsorship.

25% Draft/edit proposals, final reports, solicitation letters and other written materials as needed. Includes the submission of budget and financial information.

Education/Experience:

B.A. required

Minimum of 2 years development experience required

Working knowledge of the performing arts is preferred

Minimum Skills and/or Knowledge Required:

Strong communication skills are imperative, as are interpersonal and organizational skills.

Creativity and an excellent command of the English language are critical to identifying funding sources, matching their interests to projects, and communicating persuasively the need for funding, both in person and in writing.

A professional and cordial demeanor, tact, and diplomacy are imperative as the incumbent is regularly in contact with people at all levels of society and business including Kennedy Center leadership, high level corporate executives, volunteers, major donors and prospects, and other personnel.

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is a world premier performing arts organization and our nation's cultural center. Diversity is a critical component of our mission, vision, and values. Our staff exhibits a wide variety of perspectives and experiences which enable us to foster and strengthen an environment of diversity and inclusion. We offer a comprehensive range of benefits including medical, dental and vision insurance, paid vacation and sick leave, and a 403(b) retirement plan.